Along The Mighty Brahmaputra - 2020/2021

Post me the brochure

Think of Assam and your first thoughts probably involve tea and maybe temples. Certainly it is not noted for its tourism, mostly because of the lack of acceptable accommodation and transportation. This is a great pity, as this state that lies south of Tibet and Bhutan and north of Bangladesh has so much to offer the naturalist, bird watcher or cultural traveller. One of the world’s great rivers, the Brahmaputra runs for some 1800 miles from its source in the Tibetan Himalaya to its delta in the Bay of Bengal. Nothing can prepare the traveller for the vastness and emptiness of this great water highway, as myriad channels ply through seemingly endless archipelagos of sand islands. Within striking distance of the river are a number of significant national parks. Among these is the World Heritage Site at Kaziranga, where the world’s largest population of one horned rhino resides.

This unusual journey will appeal to those who wish to witness this extraordinary area, its diverse cultures and marvellous wildlife but who are weary of the more well-trodden paths around the world. The roads may be poor and the tourist infrastructure very much in its infancy, but that is precisely why we find this region so exciting. Now is the time to visit before big business moves in with the resort hotel chains and all other paraphernalia that 21st century tourism entails. For these voyages along the Brahmaputra River we are working with our associates, Assam Bengal Navigation, an Indian/British joint venture based in Guwahati whose directors have a wealth of experience in operating river vessels in India. We have chartered the RV Charaidew II from them and the vessel is specially designed for the navigational conditions on the Brahmaputra.

Useful links & Travel Advice

Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.

It is our vision to use the Noble Caledonia framework to improve economic, social and environmental conditions in the areas we work and visit. To this end, in 2013 we established the Noble Caledonia Charitable Trust (NCCT): Registered Charity No. 1153281.

Noble Caledonia Ltd cover the costs of administering the NCCT so that 100% of your donation will go directly to the beneficiaries. Money is raised from a percentage of Noble Caledonia’s profits and through fundraising by staff and donations from our travellers and business partners.

Future Hope Kolkata

Since 2014 the NCCT have helped fund raising for Future Hope, an inspirational charity that aims to give the most vulnerable street and slum children of Kolkata and its surroundings a stable environment to reach their full potential and become independent, self-sufficient and socially responsible young adults.

Future Hope provides opportunity through its homes, medical programme, school and skills training centre to over 350 children and young people. A small charity, Future Hope has a strong family ethos, which extends not only to the staff and children at the homes and school but also to the local community, its supporters, donors and volunteers.

In 2018 the NCCT committed to provide education for 10 children per year at Future Hope. The annual cost of educating a child is £675 and we aim to increase the number of children we help from 10 to 20 per year through donations and fundraising.

If you would like to make a donation you may do so by sending a cheque made payable to NCCT to 2 Chester Close, London SW1X 7BE.

DONATING

If you would like to make a donation by cheque please make it payable to ‘NCCT’ and send it to NCCT, 2 Chester Close, London, SW1X 7BE, stating the name of the project you wish to donate to. Or

Charaidew II

We are delighted to have chartered the RV Charaidew II for our scenic cruises along the Brahmaptura River in 2019 and 2020. Launched in January 2019, this charming vessel features a range of comfortable cabins, all with French balconies. Accommodating a maximum of just 34 passengers and with an equal number of crew, the vessel will be sure to provide a friendly and welcoming atmosphere on board. With its expansive Sun Deck there is ample opportunity to watch the world gently pass by as you relax on board your floating hotel.

Itinerary

Day 1
- London to Kolkata, India.

Fly by scheduled indirect flight from
London to Kolkata.

Day 2
- Kolkata.

Arrive in the morning and transfer to the Oberoi Grand Hotel for a three night stay. Following lunch at the hotel, enjoy an afternoon tour of India’s second largest city including Victoria Memorial. Dinner will be at our hotel this evening.

Day 3
- Kolkata.

After breakfast we will commence our day with a visit to Kolkata’s vibrant and colourful flower market. Following time here, we will take in what is arguably one of the best ways to see Kolkata, whilst sailing along the River Hooghly by local boat, before debarking and visiting St Paul’s Cathedral, noted for its stunning Gothic architecture. Following lunch in a local restaurant, we will head to South Park Cemetery being the last resting place of many of Kolkata’s early British settlers, before returning to the hotel and enjoying dinner tonight.

Day 4
- Kolkata.

Following breakfast our tour will commence with a visit to Dalhousie Square, including a drive past the Governor’s House and High Court, before enjoying a tram ride, a form of transport used in Kolkata since 1902. We will then continue to The Mother House, being the former home and last resting place of Mother Teresa and lastly visit the wonderfully opulent and eccentric Marble Palace, displaying some incredible and varied works of art. After lunch in a local restaurant, we will return to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure. Dinner will be at our hotel this evening.

Day 5
- Kolkata to Guwahati.

Depart on a morning flight to Guwahati
and then drive up to Nilachal Hill to see the holy Kamakhya temple.
With its tantric rites and animal sacrifice, the more squeamish may
prefer to content themselves with the exterior. Also visit the poignant Commonwealth War Graves before transferring to the RV Charaidew II
for embarkation. After approximately an hour’s sailing, we will moor for
the night in Kurua on the north bank.

Day 6
- Guwahati to Ganesh Pahar.

Today is spent cruising upstream and the
vessel may encounter strong currents. We will have time to pause and stretch
our legs at a small local village with its lush green fields of vegetables and corn.

Day 7
- Cruising.

Leaving the hills behind, we enjoy our first taste of the
wilderness experience, sand banks like icebergs on either side. We will
stop at a bankside village, creating a sensation as we do, and see the local
weavers at work in their homes and then stroll through sugarcane plantations.
We moor for the night in a lunar landscape of sand islands, with hopefully the
Himalayas in view to provide a contrasting backdrop in the distance.

Day 8
- Tezpur.

We cruise on to Tezpur, where after lunch we visit the 6th
century Da Parbatia temple ruins, with a beautifully carved portal, and
explore the town by cycle rickshaw. We will stop at Cole Park with Medieval
stone carvings saved from sites all over the region, and aim to pass by the
bungalow once lived in by Alexander Bruce, pioneer of the tea industry.
Our ship will be waiting at the town’s waterfront for us to re-board.

Day 9
- Nameri National Park.

After an early breakfast we drive for some
two hours to the Nameri National Park at the foot of the blue hills of
Arunachal Pradesh, the old North East Frontier Agency. Here we take a
float trip of around two hours duration down the Jia Bhoreli River through
the park, with excellent birdwatching (look out for the great hornbills) and perhaps the chance of sighting wild elephant. After lunch we take a village
walk before returning to the ship.

Day 10
- Kaziranga.

Continue upstream, passing below a seemingly endless
new bridge across the vast width of the river bed, to moor at Steemer Ghat,
a lovely beach backed by jungle-covered hills. In the afternoon we drive to
Kaziranga’s Western Range for a jeep safari and to scan the wilderness from
an observation tower. Kaziranga is a World Heritage Site and, with a
population of well over 1000 one-horned rhinoceros, it is the best place in
the world to see these beasts.

Day 11
- Kaziranga.

Today we will drive to Kaziranga’s Central Range for
further jeep safaris. We hope to encounter many of Kaziranga’s endemic
wildlife which includes good populations of wild elephant, sambar, swamp
and hog deer, wild pig, plus hundreds of types of birds, flora, fauna and of
course, the elusive Bengal Tiger.

Day 12
- Vishnath.

This morning we set sail upstream, with Kaziranga National Park
on the right bank. At around midday we reach Vishnath, with its Ahom-period
Shiva temple. There are other later temples too, and we walk through the town
before re-boarding and setting off again, with Kaziranga still on the far bank.

Day 13
- Cruising.

Today is spent on the river and we have a good chance of
spotting Gangetic dolphin.

Day 14
- Kaziranga.

This morning we land and take a jeep safari in Kaziranga’s
little-visited Eastern Range, with grasslands much favoured by rhino, where
you might spot the rare Bengal florican. Returning to the boat, we continue
our cruise upstream.

Day 15
- Cruising.

Another day spent cruising upstream. We will take time to
pause and walk through a bank-side village, getting an insight into the life of
rural India.

Day 16
- Majuli Island.

Around breakfast time, we should reach Majuli Island,
supposedly the world’s largest river island, and possessing unique Hindu
monasteries famed for their dance-drama performances - the whole island is now
shortlisted for future UNESCO World Heritage status. We visit a monastery at
Auniati with an eclectic museum and attend a dance performance at Kamalbari
Monastery, before cruising across to Neamati Ghat on the opposite bank.

Day 17
- Sibsagar.

We visit a tea estate this morning and see all the processes
of tea production (factory inoperative between December and mid-March)
then drive for about an hour to Sibsagar, the one-time capital of the kings
of Assam. Shan by origin (Assam and Siam share the same derivation) but
converted to Hinduism they ruled Assam for some 700 years until the 1820s,
and their culture and architecture is a strange and delightful amalgam of
Indian and South East Asian. We will see temples with stupa like profiles, and
palaces of distinctive form - note the crocodiles and rather erotic caryatids
that adorn the roof of the Rang Mahal. For the record book, the temple
tank here is believed to be the world’s largest hand-excavated reservoir.
We return to our vessel which will have cruised up to Dikhou Mukh, close to
Sibsagar, and spend our last night on board. (Dependent on river conditions
the last night may be spent at Neamati, close to Jorhat).

Day 18
- Assam to Kolkata.

Disembark after breakfast for our flight to Kolkata.
On arrival we will transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 19
- Kolkata to London.

Depart this morning by scheduled indirect flight,
arriving into London this evening.

Dates and Prices

SPECIAL OFFER - SAVE £300 PER PERSON ON SELECTED DEPARTURES

Prices per person based on double occupancy

25 November
to
13 December 2020
•
20 January
to
7 February 2021
•
17 February
to
7 March 2021

Not Included: Travel insurance, Indian visa, camera fees in national parks.

NB. Excursions, events ashore and ports are subject to change depending on entrance time allocations and river conditions. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

Deckplan

Charaidew II

We are delighted to have chartered the RV Charaidew II for our scenic cruises along the Brahmaptura River in 2019 and 2020. Launched in January 2019, this charming vessel features a range of comfortable cabins, all with French balconies. Accommodating a maximum of just 34 passengers and with an equal number of crew, the vessel will be sure to provide a friendly and welcoming atmosphere on board. With its expansive Sun Deck there is ample opportunity to watch the world gently pass by as you relax on board your floating hotel.

The ship has four grades of cabin categories. The two suites, being the largest cabins on board, are situated at the bow of the Upper Deck and measure a spacious 350 square feet. The 12 Upper Deck twin/double cabins take up the remainder of the Upper Deck and measure 240 square feet. There are two Main Deck double cabins (with fixed queen size bed) that measure 170 square feet, the same size as the two Main Deck single cabins that occupy the same deck. All cabins have sliding glass door windows that lead on to a French balcony and include stylish en-suite bathrooms with bathrobes and slippers. The cabin amenities also include a safe, mini-bar, tea/coffee making facilities, a hairdryer and boutique toiletries.

Spread over three decks, the onboard facilities include the Main Deck dining room where delicious regional and international cuisine will be served in a single seating. On the same deck you will find a gym with a good range of facilities and a spa that offers a wide range of treatments. The ship’s large Sun Deck is a perfect place to observe everyday life and to be on the lookout for the many species of birds and animals that congregate along the banks of the river. On the Sun Deck itself is the ship’s saloon and bar, so refreshments, respite and shade will never be too far out of reach even when busy observing the comings and goings of this most magnificent river.

Meals are always taken in an open seating arrangement to allow you to meet and mingle with your fellow travellers. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style and feature hot and cold dishes whereas dinner is served to your table. The cuisine is a selection of regional specialties and international dishes; Assamese cuisine generally being much milder than other regional cuisines of India. Tea, coffee and mineral water are available without charge and complimentary bottled water can always be found in your cabin and will be replenished each day.

The vessel offers comfortable surroundings and provides a welcoming and informal atmosphere on board. The friendly crew of 34 will do their utmost to ensure your stay is enjoyable, informative and agreeable throughout. A daily briefing by the Cruise Director will give you information on the next day’s activities and English-speaking local naturalist guides provide insider knowledge into the local culture, horticulture and history of the region.

Ship Directory

Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.

We are delighted you have chosen the RV Charaidew II which we have chartered for your upcoming voyage along the Brahmaputra.

The vessel was launched in January 2019 and features 18 elegantly appointed cabins, all benefiting from French balconies, and an expansive Sun Deck from where you can watch the busy life of the waterside villages pass by as well as watch for wildlife. The vessel accommodates a maximum of just 34 passengers and, with an equal number of crew, you will be assured of a friendly and welcoming atmosphere on board.

We hope this information booklet answers any questions you have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.

All cabins have individually controlled air conditioning. All cabin windows are fitted with gauze screens so it is feasible to switch off the air-conditioning at night and open the windows.

ALARM

An alarm will be sounded in the event of emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do in the event of emergency.

ALL ABOARD

Your times for embarkation and disembarkation will be provided by your Cruise Director.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

During your time on board, various announcements will be made by the ship’s crew and our Tour Manager. Please listen out for these announcements as they will be of importance or interest.

BAR/BEVERAGES

A bar is available on board and your bill for drinks consumed throughout your cruise should be settled at the end of the journey. The ship’s water supply comes from the river after passing through a filtration plant. This water is suitable for washing but should not be drunk. Purified water is used for cooking and food preparation on board. Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water are available throughout your voyage and bottled water is available in your cabin and replenished daily.

CABIN DIMENSIONS

The ship features 18 cabins – the categories and measurements are as follows:

Main Deck Single cabins measure 170 square feet and contain a single bed.

CABIN FACILITIES

The decor throughout the ship is light and stylish with touches of colonial elegance, Indian-inspired design and cotton fabrics. All cabins have a large sliding glass window leading on to a private French balcony and are equipped with individual climate control, cupboard space and under-bed storage. Each cabin also contains an electronically programmable safe, mini-bar, inter-cabin telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. Each cabin’s ensuite bathroom includes boutique toiletries, a hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers.

CRUISE DIRECTOR

A local Cruise Director will accompany you on your voyage, along with a Noble Caledonia Tour Manager.

CURRENCY

All bills on board the ship will be in Indian Rupees, but payment may also be made in US Dollars, Euros or Pound Sterling. Payments are also accepted by Visa or MasterCard. Debit cards are not accepted. An itemised bill will be presented to each passenger prior to disembarkation for any items purchased during the cruise.

DAILY PROGRAMME

Each evening the next day’s programme will be delivered to your cabin.

DRESS CODE

Comfortable and practical attire is recommended during the day for excursions. Dress on board is casual or smart-casual for the evenings. Jackets are not required.

Your travel wardrobe should be informal and comfortable. Lightweight clothing which can be layered is the most suitable to cover a range of conditions; take light rainwear e.g. disposable rain poncho to be prepared for showers. Warmer items may be required for the mornings and some evenings.

Dress should be respectful to cultural differences and both males and females should not reveal too much “skin”. As we will be travelling through the Indian countryside, where many people are not used to tourists and are often curious about visitors, please be prepared to be stared at. Women should dress modestly; a headscarf is useful. Long baggy shorts for men and women, or medium length skirts for women are acceptable.

During the later months, October to February, warm clothes (in subdued colours) are required for dawn and dusk jeep safaris in wildlife sanctuaries. When going ashore, guests should use easily removable footwear for visiting holy sites. The Sun Deck is ideal for sunbathing in hot weather, but please make sure you are not visible from the shore if you are not suitably covered up.

ELECTRICITY

Voltage on board is 220V/50 (no neutral) with universal sockets.

EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION

Embarkation is at approximately 4.00 pm, unless otherwise advised. The official embarkation time will be advised in your final documentation. The official disembarkation time is between 8.30 and 9.00 am, however your Cruise Director will provide detailed information prior to the end of the cruise. This will include departure transfer information.

EMERGENCY AND SAFETY PROCEDURES

Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures shall be provided following your embarkation.

FIRE SAFETY

The RV Charaidew II meets with all fire and safety regulations as outlined by the relevant governing bodies. Further information regarding fire safety will be provided to you on board the vessel.

FIRST AID

A number of crew are fully trained and certified to provide First Aid. Further medical assistance can be sought from one of the hospitals along the river in the event of emergency.

FITNESS ROOM

There is a fitness room available for use aboard the vessel.

GIFT SHOP

There is a small gift shop aboard the vessel which will stock a small selection of items including postcards and stamps.

HAIRDRESSER

There is no hairdresser aboard the vessel.

HOUSEKEEPING

Your cabin will be cleaned daily with a ‘turn down’ service at night.

‘INFOTAINMENT’ SYSTEM

In the air-conditioned Saloon, the ship holds a small book library and various media items, such as DVD’s to watch.

KEYS TO CABIN

Each cabin will receive their own cabin key. Before leaving the ship we kindly ask all passengers to swap the cabin key with a shore pass which will be provided to you by the ship’s reception desk. After your return to the ship, please return your shore pass to reception in exchange for your cabin key.

LAUNDRY

A laundry service is provided on board at additional cost.

LIBRARY

A small selection of books is available for your enjoyment, located in the ship’s Saloon.

LIFT

There is no lift (or chair lift) on board.

LOST PROPERTY

Lost property should be handed in to the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship we are only able to return them to you at your own cost.

MEALS

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all served buffet-style in the single seating dining room. Cuisine is a combination of Assamese (milder than most Indian cuisine) and continental.

If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free or low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs.

MOSQUITOES

External doors and the gauze windows should be kept closed at all times – day and night. At night, if on deck or going ashore, be sure to rub ankles and other exposed parts with repellent. Switch off lights when leaving your cabin so as not to lure the mosquitoes in. Mosquitoes love damp spots so it helps to keep the shower room door bolted shut with the light off when not in use. Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites.

NATURALIST

Local naturalists will accompany you throughout your sailing.

NEWSPAPERS

Newspapers are not available on board.

OPERATIONAL CHANGES

Despite our meticulous planning efforts, there may be times when changes must be made to the daily programme due to circumstances beyond our control such as heavy river traffic or fluctuating water levels. The ship’s Captain and crew will do their utmost to find the best and safest solution. Any changes to the day’s schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.

PAYMENTS ON BOARD

The vessel operates a signed-chit system whereby no payment is immediately required (the vessel only requiring a signature for your purchase) and, only at the end of the cruise will you be presented with your final itemised bill to settle. The onboard currency is the Indian Rupee, however you can also pay cash in Euros, US Dollars and British Pounds. Visa and MasterCard are also accepted. Debit cards are not accepted.

POST

Postcards and stamps are available for you to purchase (subject to availability) and, items can be posted on your behalf by the ship’s crew (although as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself). Please note that neither the ship nor Noble Caledonia can be held responsible for items of post that are not successfully delivered on your behalf.

QUESTIONNAIRES

We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and the services provided and in order to do this we welcome feedback from our guests. Your comments are important to us therefore we request that you complete the questionnaire that will be provided to you on board.

RECEPTION

Reception is staffed throughout the day and a member of crew can be contacted in the evenings in the event of emergency.

ROOM SERVICE

Room service is not available, although should you feel unwell and unable to make it to the ship’s restaurant, special arrangements can be made.

SAFE

All cabins are fitted with a safe and we recommend you place your valuables inside the safe whenever you are away from your cabin. Please remember to remove all items from your safe prior to you departing the vessel at the end of the cruise.

SAFETY

Please take careful note of all safety instructions provided to you by the Master and crew of the vessel.

SMOKING

Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation. SPA A spa is available on board with a choice of treatments at additional cost.

SUN DECK

The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy. There may be times, for example at periods of inclement weather or low bridges, whereby it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and Crew for instruction. Please note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.

TELEPHONE

Room to room phones are available aboard the vessel. International calls can be made at additional charge (subject to phone coverage) from the ship’s reception area.

VISITORS

Visitors are not permitted aboard the vessel without the prior consent of the ship’s senior staff. Please provide as much notice as possible to the senior staff so that the necessary arrangements can be made. The ship’s operators reserve the right to deny boarding to any visitors.

WATER

Complimentary water is available during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bottled water is also available in your cabin and replenished daily.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available on board however reception cannot be guaranteed given the remoteness of where the ship will be sailing.

PLEASE NOTE: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.

The ship has four grades of cabin categories. The two suites, being the largest cabins on board, are situated at the bow of the Upper Deck and measure a spacious 350 square feet. The 12 Upper Deck twin/double cabins take up the remainder of the Upper Deck and measure 240 square feet. There are two Main Deck double cabins (with fixed queen size bed) that measure 170 square feet, the same size as the two Main Deck single cabins that occupy the same deck. All cabins have sliding glass door windows that lead on to a French balcony and include stylish en-suite bathrooms with bathrobes and slippers. The cabin amenities also include a safe, mini-bar, tea/coffee making facilities, a hairdryer and boutique toiletries.

Your Space

Your Space

Spread over three decks, the onboard facilities include the Main Deck dining room where delicious regional and international cuisine will be served in a single seating. On the same deck you will find a gym with a good range of facilities and a spa that offers a wide range of treatments. The ship’s large Sun Deck is a perfect place to observe everyday life and to be on the lookout for the many species of birds and animals that congregate along the banks of the river. On the Sun Deck itself is the ship’s saloon and bar, so refreshments, respite and shade will never be too far out of reach even when busy observing the comings and goings of this most magnificent river.

Your Dining

Your Dining

Meals are always taken in an open seating arrangement to allow you to meet and mingle with your fellow travellers. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style and feature hot and cold dishes whereas dinner is served to your table. The cuisine is a selection of regional specialties and international dishes; Assamese cuisine generally being much milder than other regional cuisines of India. Tea, coffee and mineral water are available without charge and complimentary bottled water can always be found in your cabin and will be replenished each day.

Life On Board

Life Onboard

The vessel offers comfortable surroundings and provides a welcoming and informal atmosphere on board. The friendly crew of 34 will do their utmost to ensure your stay is enjoyable, informative and agreeable throughout. A daily briefing by the Cruise Director will give you information on the next day’s activities and English-speaking local naturalist guides provide insider knowledge into the local culture, horticulture and history of the region.

Ship Directory

Ship Directory

Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.

We are delighted you have chosen the RV Charaidew II which we have chartered for your upcoming voyage along the Brahmaputra.

The vessel was launched in January 2019 and features 18 elegantly appointed cabins, all benefiting from French balconies, and an expansive Sun Deck from where you can watch the busy life of the waterside villages pass by as well as watch for wildlife. The vessel accommodates a maximum of just 34 passengers and, with an equal number of crew, you will be assured of a friendly and welcoming atmosphere on board.

We hope this information booklet answers any questions you have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.

All cabins have individually controlled air conditioning. All cabin windows are fitted with gauze screens so it is feasible to switch off the air-conditioning at night and open the windows.

ALARM

An alarm will be sounded in the event of emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do in the event of emergency.

ALL ABOARD

Your times for embarkation and disembarkation will be provided by your Cruise Director.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

During your time on board, various announcements will be made by the ship’s crew and our Tour Manager. Please listen out for these announcements as they will be of importance or interest.

BAR/BEVERAGES

A bar is available on board and your bill for drinks consumed throughout your cruise should be settled at the end of the journey. The ship’s water supply comes from the river after passing through a filtration plant. This water is suitable for washing but should not be drunk. Purified water is used for cooking and food preparation on board. Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water are available throughout your voyage and bottled water is available in your cabin and replenished daily.

CABIN DIMENSIONS

The ship features 18 cabins – the categories and measurements are as follows:

Main Deck Single cabins measure 170 square feet and contain a single bed.

CABIN FACILITIES

The decor throughout the ship is light and stylish with touches of colonial elegance, Indian-inspired design and cotton fabrics. All cabins have a large sliding glass window leading on to a private French balcony and are equipped with individual climate control, cupboard space and under-bed storage. Each cabin also contains an electronically programmable safe, mini-bar, inter-cabin telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. Each cabin’s ensuite bathroom includes boutique toiletries, a hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers.

CRUISE DIRECTOR

A local Cruise Director will accompany you on your voyage, along with a Noble Caledonia Tour Manager.

CURRENCY

All bills on board the ship will be in Indian Rupees, but payment may also be made in US Dollars, Euros or Pound Sterling. Payments are also accepted by Visa or MasterCard. Debit cards are not accepted. An itemised bill will be presented to each passenger prior to disembarkation for any items purchased during the cruise.

DAILY PROGRAMME

Each evening the next day’s programme will be delivered to your cabin.

DRESS CODE

Comfortable and practical attire is recommended during the day for excursions. Dress on board is casual or smart-casual for the evenings. Jackets are not required.

Your travel wardrobe should be informal and comfortable. Lightweight clothing which can be layered is the most suitable to cover a range of conditions; take light rainwear e.g. disposable rain poncho to be prepared for showers. Warmer items may be required for the mornings and some evenings.

Dress should be respectful to cultural differences and both males and females should not reveal too much “skin”. As we will be travelling through the Indian countryside, where many people are not used to tourists and are often curious about visitors, please be prepared to be stared at. Women should dress modestly; a headscarf is useful. Long baggy shorts for men and women, or medium length skirts for women are acceptable.

During the later months, October to February, warm clothes (in subdued colours) are required for dawn and dusk jeep safaris in wildlife sanctuaries. When going ashore, guests should use easily removable footwear for visiting holy sites. The Sun Deck is ideal for sunbathing in hot weather, but please make sure you are not visible from the shore if you are not suitably covered up.

ELECTRICITY

Voltage on board is 220V/50 (no neutral) with universal sockets.

EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION

Embarkation is at approximately 4.00 pm, unless otherwise advised. The official embarkation time will be advised in your final documentation. The official disembarkation time is between 8.30 and 9.00 am, however your Cruise Director will provide detailed information prior to the end of the cruise. This will include departure transfer information.

EMERGENCY AND SAFETY PROCEDURES

Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures shall be provided following your embarkation.

FIRE SAFETY

The RV Charaidew II meets with all fire and safety regulations as outlined by the relevant governing bodies. Further information regarding fire safety will be provided to you on board the vessel.

FIRST AID

A number of crew are fully trained and certified to provide First Aid. Further medical assistance can be sought from one of the hospitals along the river in the event of emergency.

FITNESS ROOM

There is a fitness room available for use aboard the vessel.

GIFT SHOP

There is a small gift shop aboard the vessel which will stock a small selection of items including postcards and stamps.

HAIRDRESSER

There is no hairdresser aboard the vessel.

HOUSEKEEPING

Your cabin will be cleaned daily with a ‘turn down’ service at night.

‘INFOTAINMENT’ SYSTEM

In the air-conditioned Saloon, the ship holds a small book library and various media items, such as DVD’s to watch.

KEYS TO CABIN

Each cabin will receive their own cabin key. Before leaving the ship we kindly ask all passengers to swap the cabin key with a shore pass which will be provided to you by the ship’s reception desk. After your return to the ship, please return your shore pass to reception in exchange for your cabin key.

LAUNDRY

A laundry service is provided on board at additional cost.

LIBRARY

A small selection of books is available for your enjoyment, located in the ship’s Saloon.

LIFT

There is no lift (or chair lift) on board.

LOST PROPERTY

Lost property should be handed in to the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship we are only able to return them to you at your own cost.

MEALS

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all served buffet-style in the single seating dining room. Cuisine is a combination of Assamese (milder than most Indian cuisine) and continental.

If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free or low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs.

MOSQUITOES

External doors and the gauze windows should be kept closed at all times – day and night. At night, if on deck or going ashore, be sure to rub ankles and other exposed parts with repellent. Switch off lights when leaving your cabin so as not to lure the mosquitoes in. Mosquitoes love damp spots so it helps to keep the shower room door bolted shut with the light off when not in use. Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites.

NATURALIST

Local naturalists will accompany you throughout your sailing.

NEWSPAPERS

Newspapers are not available on board.

OPERATIONAL CHANGES

Despite our meticulous planning efforts, there may be times when changes must be made to the daily programme due to circumstances beyond our control such as heavy river traffic or fluctuating water levels. The ship’s Captain and crew will do their utmost to find the best and safest solution. Any changes to the day’s schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.

PAYMENTS ON BOARD

The vessel operates a signed-chit system whereby no payment is immediately required (the vessel only requiring a signature for your purchase) and, only at the end of the cruise will you be presented with your final itemised bill to settle. The onboard currency is the Indian Rupee, however you can also pay cash in Euros, US Dollars and British Pounds. Visa and MasterCard are also accepted. Debit cards are not accepted.

POST

Postcards and stamps are available for you to purchase (subject to availability) and, items can be posted on your behalf by the ship’s crew (although as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself). Please note that neither the ship nor Noble Caledonia can be held responsible for items of post that are not successfully delivered on your behalf.

QUESTIONNAIRES

We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and the services provided and in order to do this we welcome feedback from our guests. Your comments are important to us therefore we request that you complete the questionnaire that will be provided to you on board.

RECEPTION

Reception is staffed throughout the day and a member of crew can be contacted in the evenings in the event of emergency.

ROOM SERVICE

Room service is not available, although should you feel unwell and unable to make it to the ship’s restaurant, special arrangements can be made.

SAFE

All cabins are fitted with a safe and we recommend you place your valuables inside the safe whenever you are away from your cabin. Please remember to remove all items from your safe prior to you departing the vessel at the end of the cruise.

SAFETY

Please take careful note of all safety instructions provided to you by the Master and crew of the vessel.

SMOKING

Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation. SPA A spa is available on board with a choice of treatments at additional cost.

SUN DECK

The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy. There may be times, for example at periods of inclement weather or low bridges, whereby it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and Crew for instruction. Please note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.

TELEPHONE

Room to room phones are available aboard the vessel. International calls can be made at additional charge (subject to phone coverage) from the ship’s reception area.

VISITORS

Visitors are not permitted aboard the vessel without the prior consent of the ship’s senior staff. Please provide as much notice as possible to the senior staff so that the necessary arrangements can be made. The ship’s operators reserve the right to deny boarding to any visitors.

WATER

Complimentary water is available during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bottled water is also available in your cabin and replenished daily.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available on board however reception cannot be guaranteed given the remoteness of where the ship will be sailing.

PLEASE NOTE: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.

V.2 February 2019

Deck plans

Deckplan

Charitable Trust Project

It is our vision to use the Noble Caledonia framework to improve economic, social and environmental conditions in the areas we work and visit. To this end, in 2013 we established the Noble Caledonia Charitable Trust (NCCT): Registered Charity No. 1153281.

Noble Caledonia Ltd cover the costs of administering the NCCT so that 100% of your donation will go directly to the beneficiaries. Money is raised from a percentage of Noble Caledonia’s profits and through fundraising by staff and donations from our travellers and business partners.

Future Hope Kolkata

Since 2014 the NCCT have helped fund raising for Future Hope, an inspirational charity that aims to give the most vulnerable street and slum children of Kolkata and its surroundings a stable environment to reach their full potential and become independent, self-sufficient and socially responsible young adults.

Future Hope provides opportunity through its homes, medical programme, school and skills training centre to over 350 children and young people. A small charity, Future Hope has a strong family ethos, which extends not only to the staff and children at the homes and school but also to the local community, its supporters, donors and volunteers.

In 2018 the NCCT committed to provide education for 10 children per year at Future Hope. The annual cost of educating a child is £675 and we aim to increase the number of children we help from 10 to 20 per year through donations and fundraising.

If you would like to make a donation you may do so by sending a cheque made payable to NCCT to 2 Chester Close, London SW1X 7BE.

DONATING

If you would like to make a donation by cheque please make it payable to ‘NCCT’ and send it to NCCT, 2 Chester Close, London, SW1X 7BE, stating the name of the project you wish to donate to. Or

Tour Extensions

Join us after your cruise for an exploration of Bhutan – the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’ – nestled between India and the Tibetan Plateau in the heart of the Himalayas. Bhutan offers a fascinating insight into a Buddhist culture and this is a unique opportunity to explore this little-visited country, steeped in tradition with warm and hospitable people. Added to this, we will be surrounded by some of the most incredible scenery in the world; rugged snow-capped mountain ranges, the breathtaking Taktsang Monastery perched on a cliff-top and beautiful Himalayan landscapes dotted with colourful prayer flags.

Taktsang Dzong monastery

The Itinerary

Day 1 Kolkata to Thimphu Valley, Bhutan. After breakfast transfer to Kolkata Airport for your flight to Paro. On arrival at Paro airport, you will be met and transferred to Thimphu, the modern capital town of Bhutan and an exciting blend of tradition and modernity. Check-in to your hotel for a two night stay and visit both National Memorial Chorten, a monument to peace and prosperity, and the Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the largest Buddha rupas in the world.

Day 2 Thimphu Valley. Thimphu, perhaps the most unusual capital city in the world, is the seat of government. Today’s full day of sightseeing includes a visit to Thimphu’s National Library with its vast collection of Buddhist texts and manuscripts, the Institute of Traditional Medicine, Thimphu handicrafts emporium and the botanical gardens in Serbithang with its large display of flora, fauna, fruit orchids and Rhododendrons. In the evening, take a stroll along the town’s main street.

Day 3 Punakha. After an early breakfast depart for Punakha (three hours drive approximately). Drive up to Dochu-la pass (3,088 metres), stopping briefly to take in the view and admire the chortens, Mani walls, and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. On arrival check-in to your hotel and then visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel to serve as the religious and administrative centre of the region.

Day 4 Punakha. After breakfast, you will be taken to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Temple (it is a 30 minute hike from the car park up to the Temple). Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten stands out on a beautiful ridge above the Punakha valley, built by Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck. It took nine years to build and Holy Scriptures rather than engineering manuals were consulted to construct this four-storey temple. It is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture and artistic traditions. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit Nalanda Monastery, a monastic school shrouded in history and intrigue.

Day 5 Paro. This morning we set off early for Paro (four hours drive approximately) through beautiful valleys that encapsulate Bhutan’s rich culture, scenic landscape, myths and legends. Following lunch at a local restaurant we visit the National Museum with its intriguing collection of artefacts reflecting the Kingdom’s heritage. We then head to Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) situated at a commanding height overlooking Paro valley. Check-in to your hotel for a two night stay and this evening we will visit a traditional farmhouse.

Day 6 Paro. In the morning, take an excursion to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. The walk to the nest is relatively steep, however the Monastery itself and the views from its walls are simply breathtaking. In the afternoon visit Drukgyel Dzong before returning to our hotel for dinner.

Day 7 Paro to Kolkata to London. After an early breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Kolkata where day use rooms will be available at a hotel until our afternoon transfer back to the airport for the scheduled indirect flight to London.*

Day 8 London. Arrive this morning.

Prices per person based on double occupancy

13 to 20 December 2020
• 10 to 17 January 2021
• 7 to 14 February 2021
• 7 to 14 March 2021

NB. Minimum numbers are required for this extension to operate. Please note that the high altitude of this tour may affect some travellers and so you are advised to seek medical advice before booking. A good level of physical fitness will be required for the excursion to Taktsang Monastery (although horses can be hired to take you up part of the way).

* 18th December 2019 Departure:

Day 7 Paro to Delhi to London. After an early breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi where day use rooms will be available at a hotel until our afternoon transfer back to the airport for the scheduled indirect flight to London.

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Along The Mighty Brahmaputra - 2020/2021

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